by Our Correspondent in Washington DC
In a move that echoes the Cold War era’s most aggressive interventions, the Trump administration is reportedly demanding “credible military options” from the Pentagon to assert U.S. dominance over the Panama Canal and block China’s influence in the region. The U.S. Southern Command is actively formulating plans that range from increased collaboration with Panama’s security forces to a full-scale military takeover of the canal. The administration’s willingness to use force hinges on Panama’s level of cooperation with U.S. interests. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has already reviewed classified military strategies and is scheduled to visit Panama in April, raising speculation about imminent action. The Trump White House appears determined to counter China’s growing economic footprint in Latin America, and the canal—a vital global trade artery—is at the heart of this geopolitical power play.
For those with a sense of history, this situation bears striking similarities to the events of the late 1980s, when the U.S. toppled Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega under the guise of “restoring democracy.” Noriega, a longtime U.S. intelligence asset, became a target when he defied Washington and shifted toward the Soviet bloc. The Pentagon had been increasing military presence in Panama as early as 1988, laying the groundwork for intervention. After accusing Noriega of election fraud, George H.W. Bush authorized an invasion that saw 27,680 U.S. troops storm Panama. Key infrastructure was seized, the Panama Defense Forces were dismantled, and Noriega surrendered within weeks. The invasion was justified under a familiar mix of rhetoric: democracy, human rights, anti-drug trafficking efforts, and canal security.
With tensions rising, critics argue that Washington is once again prioritizing imperial control under the guise of national security. Is the Trump administration truly concerned about American interests, or is this a calculated move to reassert military dominance in Latin America? Would a new invasion spark a broader conflict, especially with China deeply embedded in Panama’s economy? Could Panama, once again, become the battleground for another superpower confrontation? Is history repeating itself? Or is this a dangerous escalation that could ignite another prolonged conflict? The stakes could not be higher.
